The Skipper Spoke To Us About The AFC Cup Dream And The Need To Pick Up From Doha.

On the eve of a new continental campaign, Blues’ skipper Sunil Chhetri called for the Blues to pick up from their previous AFC Cup run and better their performance in the final third of the field to repeat or better their run in 2016.

“The biggest problem this season has been our inability to convert our chances. We watch videos after every game, and we find at least three shots or chances that could have been goals. If we do not score we cannot expect results,” he said.

The Blues have been unlucky on a few occasions and have not been able to outscore their opponents, dropping crucial points in the I-League run but the skipper believes the AFC Cup calls for a new beginning.

“Today we begin a new tournament and it is a fresh start for everyone at the club. We are AFC Cup finalists and we need to take the pitch knowing that. I am confident that the boys will put on a good performance,” he added.

In the I-League game against Mohun Bagan, the Blues constantly threatened to score, but were unable to capitalize as their attempts were wide off the mark on several occasions. Facing the same foe in a different competition, the skipper believes his side are ready for the challenge.

“There is no lack of motivation in this team. We are Bengaluru FC and we know what we are capable of. From the ball boys all the way to the head coach, we are all motivated to do better for this club, for its fans and for each other.”

The 32-year-old was quick to brush off any talk of pressure creeping up into his side, who are fifth in the League going into the AFC Cup.

“When we played the AFC Cup final in Doha last year, we never thought we’d get there. But we took it one game at a time then right from our first group game all the way to the final and that’s how it will be once again, starting today against Mohun Bagan.”